HTM Introduces New Electric Buses in The Hague
HTM unveiled new electric buses as part of an initiative to create an emission-free transportation system in The Hague, marking a significant step towards sustainable urban mobility.
A Collaborative Effort
On Friday, 14 June 2024, HTM’s General Director Jaap Bierman and Daimler Buses Netherlands Director Joost van der Bijl introduced the new eCitaro and eCitaro-G buses. This event signifies a milestone in the journey towards an emission-free bus fleet in The Hague. The presentation took place at the HTM bus depot on Telexstraat, which was transformed in 2023 to accommodate the new charging infrastructure, in collaboration with ABB E-Mobility and Batenburg Techniek.
Features and Benefits
The new eCitaro buses are equipped with state-of-the-art features aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and safety. These buses include USB charging points, LED lighting, folding seats, and side mirror cameras that improve visibility for drivers. Additionally, they are fully accessible, allowing users of electric wheelchairs to travel safely and comfortably. The electric buses operate silently and are equipped with a bell to alert other road users, similar to a tram.
Environmental Impact
The introduction of these electric buses is part of a broader initiative by the Metropolitan Region Rotterdam The Hague (MRDH) to achieve a zero-emission bus fleet across 21 municipalities by 2030. This move is expected to contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality in the region. Wethouder Arjen Kapteijns praised the initiative, stating, “The introduction of these environmentally friendly buses is a beautiful example of innovation in sustainable mobility. We aim to make traffic in The Hague emission-free and free from harmful emissions, and we can only achieve this together.”
Partnership and Future Plans
HTM’s collaboration with Daimler Buses and MRDH highlights a successful public-private partnership aimed at modernizing urban transportation. HTM placed an order for 102 eCitaro and eCitaro-G buses in the summer of 2023 as part of this initiative. The initial batch of buses will be used for driver training and testing battery capacities, with plans to roll out a fully emission-free service within a year. The buses are expected to be incorporated into the service schedule starting September, with the articulated buses likely to be operated on busy routes from November.
Conclusion
HTM’s introduction of electric buses in The Hague marks a significant step towards sustainable and efficient public transportation. This initiative not only aims to provide a more comfortable and quieter experience for passengers but also contributes to the city’s broader environmental goals. With strong support from local government and strategic partnerships, HTM is paving the way for a greener future in urban mobility.